Which are the most famous wine varieties?
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Grape plant domestic cultivation started about 8.000 years ago in the Near East, and today, grapes and wine have conquered the global market and consumers’ preferences. Vine products include table grapes, dehydrated grapes (currants), wine, grape juice, concentrated must, distillates, leaves, and vinegar. Different varieties are used for each of the above purposes.
Wine is one of the most loved and popular alcoholic drinks consumed globally. Wine production is the most well-known and economically significant use of grapevines. Many say that wine is “an art,” but it is actually fermented grape juice. The key is the yeast that feeds on the fruit sugars, turning them into ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide. The unique organoleptic characteristics of the wine derive and depend to other factors and substance.
The global annual production is around 73-75 million tons, making grapes the 5th fruit based on tons of production (after bananas, watermelons, apples, and oranges). Approximately 50%–75% of the grapes are used for wine production. At the same time, the Global Wine Market Size accounted for USD 489.3 billion in 2021 and is estimated to reach USD 825.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2022 to 2030. Europe’s wine market share was over 45% of shares in 2021.
Grapevines belong to the Vitaceae family and the Vitis genus. Most commercial varieties (used for table grapes and wine production) belong to the Vitis vinifera species (Eurasian group). The species has around 9,000 cultivated varieties with diverse characteristics. The species is mainly cultivated in 30-50 °N and is susceptible to the pest phylloxera. On the other hand, the American Vitis species (more than 20 species), V. riparia, V. berlandieri, and V. rupestris, are widely used in rootstock breeding programs for the European varieties.
Grape varieties with the highest economic significance
Red Wine Varieties
- Cabernet Sauvignon
Regions: Widely grown in Bordeaux (France), Napa Valley (USA), Australia, Chile, and Italy.
Characteristics: Known for its deep color, full body, and high tannin content. Often aged in oak.
Economic Significance: One of the most planted and sought-after grape varieties, often commanding high prices for both grapes and wine.
- Merlot
Regions: Prominent in Bordeaux (France), California (USA), Italy, and Chile.
Characteristics: Softer and more approachable than Cabernet Sauvignon, with flavors of black cherry and plum.
Economic Significance: Popular for its versatility and appeal, contributing significantly to the wine economies of these regions.
- Pinot Noir
Regions: Burgundy (France), Oregon (USA), California (USA), and New Zealand.
Characteristics: Known for its light color, complexity, and delicate flavors of cherry and raspberry.
Economic Significance: High value and demand, especially for premium and single-vineyard wines.
- Syrah/Shiraz
Regions: Rhône Valley (France), Australia, South Africa, and California (USA).
Characteristics: Dark-skinned grape with robust flavors of blackberry, plum, and pepper.
Economic Significance: High economic impact due to its adaptability and popularity across different markets.
White Wine Varieties
- Chardonnay
Regions: Burgundy (France), California (USA), Australia, and New Zealand.
Characteristics: Versatile grape with flavors ranging from green apple and citrus to tropical fruit, often with oak influences.
Economic Significance: Widely planted and highly profitable, it is used in both still and sparkling wines, including Champagne.
- Riesling
Regions: Germany, Alsace (France), Austria, and Australia.
Characteristics: High acidity with flavors ranging from citrus and green apple to honey and petrol, often with varying sweetness levels.
Economic Significance: Renowned for its aging potential and high-quality wines, contributing significantly to the economies of these regions.
- Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris
Regions: Italy (Pinot Grigio), Alsace (France), Oregon (USA).
Characteristics: Light and crisp (Pinot Grigio) or fuller-bodied and aromatic (Pinot Gris), with flavors of pear, apple, and melon.
Economic Significance: Popular in both Europe and the New World, driving significant sales, especially in Italy and the USA.
The Most Popular Table Grape Variety
Grapes and grape extracts are known for their health benefits. They contain antioxidants, such as resveratrol, which are linked to various health benefits, including heart health and anti-inflammatory properties. Grape seed extract is used as a dietary supplement for its potential health benefits.
Today (2024), the global grape market is around 215.17 billion dollars and is expected to grow in the next few years with a 7.10% CARG, reaching 303 billion dollars in 2029. This increase can be explained by the rising demand for this delicious fruit in big markets like Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Russia.
- Thompson Seedless (Sultana)
Regions: USA (California), Turkey, Iran, and Australia.
Characteristics: Green seedless grape, sweet and versatile, used for fresh consumption, raisins, and juice.
Economic Significance: One of the most important table and raisin grapes globally, with extensive cultivation and high market demand.
Other important grape varieties used for fresh consumption are the Red Globe and Crimson seedless.
Further reading
How to Grow Grapes for Profit – Commercial Grape Grower’s Essential Guide
Grape Yield per Hectare and Acre
